Virtual Ride of Devils Gulch

“
One of the absolute top rides in the state, the downhill flow of Devils Gulch is the real deal.”

Overview

Dogs are prohibited on the trail.

A classic fire road climb and singletrack descent, Devils Gulch Trail has few equals in the Evergreen State, and possibly the country. The smooth, sculpted, roller coaster-like downhill run is that good.

Need To Know

Hikers, equestrians, and motorcycles are also allowed on the trail, so be alert on the downhill romp for other users. Advanced riders will actually climb up Devils Gulch Trail to then return down Mission Ridge Trail for a 100% singletrack ride.

Description

Although many will shuttle this ride and bypass the nearly 12 mile climb for the immediate payoff, those who like to earn their reward with pain and sweat will march up the gravel fire road en route to an awesome singletrack descent. The access for the Devils Gulch (and Mission Ridge) trailhead is from the small parking area off of FS 7100. From the parking area head south and continue on FS 7100 starting to climb. After two miles, bypass FS 7101 and turn right staying on FS 7100. The uphill grind is long but manageable. At the nine mile mark turn right on FS 9712 and continue to a small gravel area where you'll pickup the top access point for Devils Gulch Trail, #1220.

Finally on the singletrack, the trail climbs a few hundred feet higher before beginning the downhill onslaught. The smooth trail starts off fast with a few ups and downs before flattening out. After crossing Mission Ridge Trail, you'll negotiate a series of tight, technical switchbacks as you work your way down to Mission Creek.

The balance of the downhill runs along the creek and darts back and forth a few times with some rocky dips down to the water. As you blast down the remaining miles of the descent the trail turns northeast. The final stretch can be a bit overgrown and leads over a small bridge and back to the parking area.